Did you know that Franklin Square Park in Washington DC was once home to natural springs? That’s right. Before it became the lovely green space we see today Franklin Square was a place of natural beauty. Imagine soldiers during the Civil War gathering near these springs hearing bugle calls and sentry orders mixed with the heartbreaking moans of wounded soldiers passing by. This peaceful park has witnessed some difficult times.
Franklin Square Park or Franklin Park as it’s sometimes called lies in the heart of downtown Washington DC. It’s bordered by K Street to the north 13th Street to the east I Street to the south and 14th Street to the west. Though many assume it’s named for Benjamin Franklin there’s no concrete proof. It wasn’t even officially a park until 1832. Before that it was simply land.
For years Franklin Square remained relatively unchanged. Then in the 1870s improvements began. Landscaping benches and paths were added. A major renovation happened in 1935 thanks to the Public Works Administration. The fountain flagstone plaza and geometric pathways were constructed. New trees were planted. While there was another refurbishment in 1976 for the United States Bicentennial the park largely retained its 1935 look until recently.
By 2012 Franklin Square was in need of serious repair. Pathways were broken and people were creating shortcuts through the grass. Sadly many homeless individuals also made it their home. A request for proposals was put out to revitalize the park. The city invested $300.000 just for the design work. Finally in September 2021 after a year-long $21 million renovation Franklin Square reopened. Sixty-three trees were replaced with new landscaping children’s play areas flexible seating and art exhibit spaces added. A new cafe with public restrooms is a welcome addition.
Today Franklin Square Park is a vibrant hub of activity. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of Washington DC a place that has evolved over time from a site of natural springs and a Civil War encampment to a modern park where people relax enjoy art and connect with history. Nobel Laureate Charles Townes even claims he conceived the theory behind the laser while sitting on one of its benches. Remember that the next time you visit Franklin Square Park. It’s more than just a park. It’s a living piece of American history.